New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who frequently campaigns on behalf of Mitt Romney, is facing criticism from some in the GOP after he referred to Newt Gingrich as an " embarrassment" to the party on "Meet The Press."

"This is a guy who has had a very difficult political career at times and has been an embarrassment to the party," Christie told NBC's David Gregory.

Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin responded to Christie's comments in an interview today with the Fox Business Network, saying that the governor "played right into the media's hands" with these comments.

"This was a rookie mistake. He played right into the media's hands," Palin told Fox's Eric Bolling. "You know, sometimes if your candidate loses in just one step along this path, as was the case with Romney's loss to Newt the other night, and of course, Romney is Chris Christie's guy. Well, you kind of get your panties in a wad and you may say things you regret later."

Palin's husband Todd endorsed Newt Gingrich at the beginning of January. Sarah Palin has not officially endorsed a candidate yet.